Pineal gland

Key facts Your pineal gland is a very small gland in the centre of your brain. The pineal gland makes a hormone called melatonin. Melatonin helps your body control day-night sleep patterns and your internal body clock (circadian rhythms). Medical conditions related to the pineal gland aren’t common, but cysts of the pineal gland or pineal gland tumours do sometimes develop. What is the pineal gland? The pineal gland is a very small gland found in the centre of your brain. It is shaped like a pinecone, which is where it gets its name. Your pineal gland is part of